Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke has explicitly stated his intention to remain with the champions in light of interest from Barcelona.
It’s been reported that Barca want to sign the Spain international and could meet his buyout clause to do so.
But in an interview with Marca, Koke has said that while he is flattered by La Blaugrana’s interest, he doesn’t expect to be on the move before the new season.
“It’s spectacular. Barca are one of the biggest teams in the world and if they’re interested in you, you must be doing something right,” he said.
“Anyway, I just think about continuing working.
“[Atletico fans] know how I am and how I feel about Atletico. I want to stay here and everyone knows it.
“I see myself at Atletico. I always dreamed of being in the Atletico first team and wearing the shirt of Spain.
“Playing at the World Cup is my ultimate.”
Koke was indeed included in Vicente Del Bosque’s squad to go to Brazil when it was announced on Saturday.
The 22-year-old, who was speaking before his place was confirmed, expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing in the competition.
“If I’m lucky enough to go I’ll give everything because it’s my first World Cup and it’s incredible to me,” he said.
“I might never return there so I want to experience it to the fullest.”
